PCR Machine: Explore Meaning, Types, Benefits, Cost and Financing Options

Explore what PCR machines are, their types, benefits, and prices. Discover financing options for purchasing high-quality thermocyclers and PCR equipment.
PCR Machine: Explore Meaning, Types, Benefits, Cost and Financing Options
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3 min
03-April-2024

PCR machines, short for Polymerase Chain Reaction machines, are essential tools in molecular biology used to amplify and detect specific DNA sequences. In this article, we delve into their functionalities, applications, advantages, and purchasing considerations. At Bajaj Finance, we offer medical equipment financing solutions to assist healthcare professionals in acquiring these vital devices. Explore our financing options and elevate your medical practice today.

What is a PCR machine?

A PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) machine is a laboratory instrument used to amplify small segments of DNA or RNA. It facilitates the rapid and precise replication of genetic material, enabling various molecular biology applications such as gene cloning, sequencing, and disease diagnosis.

Principle of PCR machines

The principle of Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) involves amplifying specific DNA sequences. The process begins with denaturation, where the double-stranded DNA is heated to separate into single strands. This is followed by annealing, where short DNA primers bind to each strand at lower temperatures. The final step is extension, where the enzyme taq polymerase synthesises new DNA strands by adding nucleotides to the primers. These steps are repeated through cycles, exponentially increasing the DNA amount. PCR requires a thermal cycler machine to precisely control temperature changes, allowing rapid and efficient DNA amplification, which is crucial for various applications in research and diagnostics.

Parts and components of a PCR machine

A PCR machine, also known as a thermocycler, consists of several key components:

  • Thermal block: Holds samples in tubes or plates and facilitates temperature changes.
  • Heated lid: Prevents condensation on tube lids by maintaining a constant temperature.
  • Control panel: Interface for programming and controlling PCR cycles and temperatures.
  • Display screen: Shows current status, temperature, and cycle progress.
  • Peltier heating/cooling units: Enable rapid and precise temperature changes for denaturation, annealing, and extension.
  • Air intake and ventilation: Ensures proper air circulation to maintain consistent internal temperatures.
  • Sample Wells: Receptacles in the thermal block for holding PCR tubes or microplates.
  • Power supply: Provides electrical energy to the machine and its components.

PCR steps

PCR involves three main steps repeated in cycles:

Denaturation

  • The mixture is heated to 94°C for 0.5 to 2 minutes.
  • This heat breaks the hydrogen bonds between DNA strands, turning them into single strands.
  • The single strands serve as templates for creating new DNA strands.

Annealing

  • The temperature is lowered to 54-60°C for 20-40 seconds.
  • Primers, which are short DNA or RNA sequences, bind to the complementary sequences on the single-stranded DNA.
  • Each separated strand gets a forward and reverse primer.

Elongation

  • The temperature is raised to 72-80°C.
  • The taq polymerase enzyme adds DNA bases to the 3' end of the primer, extending the DNA strand in the 5' to 3' direction.
  • This enzyme can withstand high temperatures and works quickly, adding about 1000 bases per minute.

These three steps are repeated 20-40 times to rapidly amplify the target DNA sequences.

What does a PCR machine do?

PCR machines perform polymerase chain reactions, which involve three main steps: denaturation, annealing, and extension. During denaturation, the DNA strands are heated to separate into single strands. In annealing, primers bind to complementary sequences, and in extension, DNA polymerase synthesizes new strands using nucleotides.

How does it work?

PCR machines operate based on thermal cycling, which involves repeatedly heating and cooling the reaction mixture to facilitate DNA replication. The machine comprises a thermal block or well plate where samples undergo temperature changes according to programmed protocols. PCR involves multiple cycles of denaturation, annealing, and extension, typically controlled by computer software. Fluorescent dyes or probes may be used for real-time PCR to monitor amplification in real-time.

PCR machine operating procedure

  • Prepare reaction mixture with DNA template, primers, nucleotides, and DNA polymerase.
  • Load the reaction mixture into PCR tubes or wells of a thermal block.
  • Program PCR machine with desired temperature cycles.
  • Initiate PCR run and monitor amplification progress.
  • Analyze results using gel electrophoresis or real-time monitoring.

Types of PCR machines

  • Conventional PCR machines
  • Real-time PCR machines
  • Digital PCR machines

PCR machine applications

  • Genetic testing
  • Disease diagnosis
  • Forensic analysis
  • Environmental monitoring
  • Food safety testing

PCR machine advantages

  • Rapid amplification of DNA/RNA
  • High specificity and sensitivity
  • Versatile applications
  • Automation capability
  • Real-time monitoring options

PCR machine limitations

  • Susceptibility to contamination
  • Limited throughput in conventional PCR
  • Initial setup and maintenance costs
  • Dependency on primer design and specificity

Precautions using PCR machine

  • Use sterile techniques to prevent contamination.
  • Regularly clean and maintain equipment.
  • Follow manufacturer's instructions for protocol setup.
  • Implement proper safety measures when handling PCR reagents.

PCR machine examples

Thermal cyclers from companies like Bio-Rad, Thermo Fisher Scientific, and Applied Biosystems.

How much does a PCR machine cost?

PCR machine costs vary depending on the type, brand, features, and specifications. Basic models may start from a few thousand pounds, while high-end real-time PCR machines can cost tens of thousands of pounds.

Leasing vs. buying PCR machines

  • Leasing offers flexibility with lower initial costs and convenient upgrades.
  • Buying provides ownership benefits and long-term cost savings but requires higher upfront investment.

PCR machine prices

PCR machine prices can vary significantly based on features and brand. Entry-level models may start around ₹1.5 lakh, while advanced units can exceed ₹10 lakh. Factors influencing the cost include throughput capacity, automation features, and detection methods. Investing in a reliable PCR machine ensures accurate and efficient DNA amplification, making it a crucial asset for research labs, medical diagnostics, and biotechnology companies.

Buy PCR equipment from the top brands

Brand

Price range (INR)

Key features

SD Bio sensor

Rs.8.5 lakh - Rs.19 lakh

Advanced technology, high precision, reliable support

Thermo Fisher

Varies

Cutting-edge technology, robust performance

Bio-Rad

Varies

Exceptional customer support, durability

 

Financing options for purchasing for Fetal Doppler machine

Explore medical equipment finance options, including loans and leasing, to acquire fetal Doppler machines conveniently. Bajaj Finance offers tailored medical equipment solutions to suit your requirements.

Conclusion

In conclusion, PCR machines and Fetal Doppler machines are indispensable tools in medical diagnostics, offering significant benefits in various clinical settings. Whether you require PCR machines for genetic testing or Fetal Doppler machines for monitoring fetal health, Bajaj Finance’s doctor loans can help you acquire these devices with ease. Explore our financing options today and enhance your medical practice with advanced diagnostic capabilities!

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Frequently asked questions

What machine is used for PCR?
The machine used for PCR is called a thermal cycler or PCR machine. It facilitates the precise control of temperature cycling necessary for the denaturation, annealing, and extension steps of the PCR process, allowing for efficient amplification of DNA or RNA sequences.
What are the 3 types of PCR?

The three main types of PCR are:

  1. Conventional PCR: Standard PCR method involving multiple temperature cycles for DNA amplification.
  2. Real-time PCR: Also known as quantitative PCR (qPCR), it enables real-time monitoring of DNA amplification using fluorescent dyes or probes.
  3. Digital PCR: Allows for absolute quantification of nucleic acids by partitioning samples into many small PCR reactions, enabling precise quantification without the need for standard curves.
What is the instrument of PCR?
The instrument used for PCR is called a PCR machine or thermal cycler. It comprises a thermal block or well plate where samples undergo controlled temperature changes according to programmed protocols, facilitating the denaturation, annealing, and extension steps of the PCR process.
What is the principle of a PCR machine?
The principle of a PCR machine is based on thermal cycling, where samples undergo repeated cycles of heating and cooling to facilitate DNA amplification. Each cycle typically consists of denaturation, annealing, and extension steps, enabling exponential replication of specific DNA or RNA sequences.
What is a PCR machine and why is it used?

A PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) machine, also known as a thermal cycler, is a lab apparatus used to amplify segments of DNA via the polymerase chain reaction process. This is a crucial instrument in genetic testing and research, as it enables the generation of millions of copies of a particular DNA sequence.

What equipment is used for PCR?

The primary equipment used for PCR is the PCR machine or the thermal cycler. However, various other supplies are required, including a micropipette for DNA sample transferring, a centrifuge for DNA extraction, microcentrifuge tubes, PCR reagents such as DNA polymerase, deoxyribonucleotide triphosphates (dNTPs), and buffers.

How much is the cost of a PCR machine?

The cost of a PCR machine in India varies based on its specifications and features. On average, the price ranges between INR 3 lakh to INR 15 lakh, depending on the brand, type, and capacity of the device. The price may also differ from one supplier to another.

How do you start a PCR machine?

To start a PCR machine, initially, the DNA sample is combined with specific chemicals in a PCR tube. This mixture is then placed in the thermal cycler. The machine gradually raises and lowers the temperature of the samples in a pre-programmed manner, which facilitates the DNA replication process.

What is a digital PCR machine?

A Digital PCR (DPCR) machine is an advancement over traditional PCR devices. It allows for absolute quantification of nucleic acids, providing more accurate and reproducible measurements of the DNA or RNA molecules in a sample. It is particularly useful for low-abundance targets, small fold change differences, and where precise, reproducible quantification is essential.

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